Benzodiazepines - Uses And Threats

 

Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder wherein a patient suffers from elevated periods of depression and periods of mood. A person suffering from this disorder would be abnormally happy and energetic at sometimes while depressed and avoiding eye contact at the others. Benzodiazepines are used to provide relief to the patients suffering from bipolar disorders. This class of drug helps curb anxiety and insomnia.

Use of Benzodiazepines

This drug is used as a sleep aid for the patient. However, the use of this drug is always made under a fixed schedule and limited quantity so as to avoid any addiction of it.

How it works?

It acts by slowing the nervous system down. It helps ease the feelings of nervousness and anxiousness. When consumed, this drug slows down the nervous system and it acts quickly, providing immediate relief. The neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutryic acid in the brain is affected by this drug and is released more due to the activity of this drug.

Who can use it?

It is used in limited doses as any overdose may prove fatal. Moreover, pregnant women should avoid its use because it may cause birth defects in the offspring.

Side effects of Benzodiazepines

It is given in a limited dose to avoid addiction as regular and prolonged use can cause amnesia and sleepiness. Over dosage can cause adverse effect on the nervous system. Alcohol and other substance that inhibit the nervous system should not be consumed by the patient while undergoing this therapy.

This drug is administered to give relief to the patient in extreme conditions of mood swings. With the aid of this drug, the patient is able to calm down and behave properly. Moreover, the patient should also be treated by a psychiatrist so as to improve his condition.

Its available types

• Ativan (lorazepam)
• Valium (diazepam)
• Librium (chlordiazepoxide)
• Xanax (alprazolam)

Drugs like these are to be used cautiously and sparingly under medical supervision. The patient should also be warned of the effects of its over dosage. However, it is a bitter truth that so many people lose their lives because of excessive dose of this drug.